Ken Coates among individuals recognized by the U of S as outstanding citizens in honour of Canada 150

Ten remarkable members of the University of Saskatchewan (U of S) community are being recognized as U of S Canada 150 Citizens for significantly contributing to Canada becoming a more diverse, inclusive and environmentally sustainable country.

Sep 8, 2017 12:04 PM

SASKATOON - Ten remarkable members of the University of Saskatchewan (U of S) community are being recognized as U of S Canada 150 Citizens for significantly contributing to Canada becoming a more diverse, inclusive and environmentally sustainable country.

“During Canada’s sesquicentennial, we’re thrilled to recognize 10 of our most inspiring community members and their incredible accomplishments,” said Kelly McInnes, chief leadership development officer at the U of S and chair of the U of S Canada 150 Citizens selection committee. “In many cases, their contributions have had a profound impact not only here at the U of S, but nationally and internationally as well.”

Members of the university and wider community were invited to submit nominations identifying university staff, faculty, students and alumni who best exemplify the federal government’s Canada 150 themes of diversity and inclusion, reconciliation between Indigenous and non-Indigenous peoples, environment, and youth. A selection committee consisting of U of S faculty and staff reviewed the nominations and made the final 10 selections.

The initiative is part of the U of S Canada 150 Projectand offers the university community an opportunity to reflect on its legacy and showcase the ways in which its students, staff, faculty and alumni have not only shaped Canada’s past, but are contributing to enriching the country’s present and future.

“Canada 150 is a significant occasion for our university—one that asks us not only to celebrate our achievements, but envision a future that truly reflects who we are as a community and as Canadians,” said Karen Chad, vice-president of research and the executive sponsor of the U of S Canada 150 Project.

The individuals being honoured as part of the U of S Canada 150 Citizens project are:

CeCe Baptiste, strategic planning advisor and U of S graduate: for her extensive volunteer work and commitment to the Indigenous community

Marie Battiste, education professor: for her work on indigenizing education

Siera Bearchell, law student: for her global representation of Canada advocating for positive body image for women

Angie Bugg, energy conservation co-ordinator at Saskatchewan Environmental Society and U of S graduate: for her commitment to environmental stewardship and gender and ethnic diversity in the engineering field

Ken Coates, public policy professor and Canada Research Chair in Regional Innovation:for his work on developing strong public policy that supports Indigenous rights

Max FineDay, co-executive director at the Canadian Roots Exchange and U of S graduate: for his leadership in building bridges between Indigenous and non-Indigenous communities

Dr. Alyssa Hayes, former assistant dentistry professor:for her commitment to making dental care accessible to vulnerable residents and refugees

Dr. Jay Kalra, pathology professor and faculty representative on the U of S Board of Governors: for his dedication to promoting co-operation and understanding among ethnic groups

Harry Lafond, executive director of the Office of the Treaty Commissioner and U of S graduate: for his community work and advocacy on behalf of Indigenous Peoples

Naheda Sahtout, PhD candidate:for her extensive volunteer work with minority groups and dedication to supporting newcomers to Canada